The Chairperson of Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Abena Osei-Asare, has called on public officials to take their responsibilities seriously and account for their performance while serving in public institutions.

She stressed that officials entrusted with managing public resources must demonstrate responsibility, protect state assets and take action to address problems identified in their institutions.

Madam Osei-Asare made the remarks during a working visit by the PAC to the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) on Wednesday, October 21, 2026. The visit was intended to help the Committee gain first-hand knowledge of the Authority’s operations.

Audits Must Lead to Corrective Action

Madam Osei-Asare emphasised that audit reports should not simply be used to blame or vilify individuals. Instead, their findings must lead to practical measures that correct financial irregularities, strengthen internal controls and prevent similar problems from recurring.

She indicated that public institutions must demonstrate what they have done to address concerns raised in previous audits rather than repeatedly offering explanations without meaningful action.

The PAC chairperson said accountability should include recovering misused or unaccounted-for public funds and applying appropriate sanctions where breaches have been established.

She noted that the purpose of examining audit findings is to ensure that public money is managed responsibly and that recommendations produce measurable results.

Officials Urged to Take Responsibility

The PAC chairperson also cautioned heads of state institutions against using the actions of their predecessors as an excuse for failing to address existing problems.

She explained that officials who assume leadership positions must take responsibility for the institutions under their care, regardless of when the identified problems occurred.

According to her, what matters is the action taken after an official becomes aware of an irregularity or weakness.

Her remarks followed recognition of the NPA Chief Executive, Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, for initiating steps to recover more than GH¢2 million that had been misapplied by his predecessor.

Madam Osei-Asare described the response as an example of the proactive approach expected from public officials appearing before the Committee.

PAC Focuses on Results and Public Funds

The working visit formed part of efforts by the Public Accounts Committee to understand the operations of state institutions and improve the quality of its oversight.

Madam Osei-Asare explained that gaining first-hand knowledge of an institution’s activities would help Committee members ask informed questions and better assess the explanations provided by officials.

The Committee’s broader work includes examining the Auditor-General’s reports, following up on recommendations, seeking the recovery of public funds and ensuring that appropriate action is taken where wrongdoing is established.

She stressed that accountability must go beyond identifying problems to delivering corrective measures and protecting public resources.

The PAC’s message is clear: public officials must account for their stewardship, and audit findings must lead to action, not merely blame.

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